Le Amanti   By: Matilde Serao (1856-1927)

Le Amanti by Matilde Serao is a beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of love, desire, and female relationships in 19th century Italy. The story follows the lives of three women - Rosario, Marianna, and Elena - who are all entangled in a web of love affairs and secrets.

Serao's prose is lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid portrait of Naples and its societal norms. The characters are all deeply flawed and multi-dimensional, making them feel incredibly real and relatable. The author skillfully weaves together their individual stories, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is Serao's exploration of the different ways in which women navigate the limitations placed on them by society. Through the characters of Rosario, Marianna, and Elena, she delves into the challenges and constraints faced by women in a patriarchal world, shedding light on the power dynamics at play in their relationships with men.

Overall, Le Amanti is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with readers who enjoy historical fiction and character-driven narratives. Serao's elegant writing style and nuanced exploration of love and femininity make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in Italian literature.

First Page:

Nell'ora tarda della sera, partita l'ultima persona amica o indifferente, per la quale essa provava l'orgogliosa e invincibile necessità di mentire, chiuse tutte le porte ermeticamente, piombata la casa nel profondo silenzio notturno, interrogate con lo sguardo sospettoso fin le fantastiche penombre della sua stanza solitaria, dove sola vivente era una pia lampada consumantesi innanzi a una sacra immagine, prosciolto il suo spirito dall'obbligo della bugia e le sue labbra dall'obbligo del sorriso, ella si lasciava abbruciare dalla grande fiamma... Continue reading book >>